Air/oil separator assemblies, components; and, methods

ABSTRACT

Crankcase ventilation filter assemblies, features, components, and methods of assembly and use provide for convenient assembly; efficient space usage; and/or preferred operation.

This application is being filed on 19 Oct. 2012, as a PCT Internationalpatent application and claims priority to U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 61/549,471, filed Oct. 20, 2012, and U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 61/576,080, filed Dec. 15, 2011, the disclosures ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

FIELD OF DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates to arrangements, systems, components, featuresand methods for separating hydrophobic fluids (such as oils), which areentrained as aerosols, from gas streams (for example air streams).Further, the arrangements also provide for filtration of othercontaminants such as carbon material from the gas streams. Thearrangements are typically used to filter crankcase ventilation gasesfrom engine systems. Methods for conducting the separations are alsoprovided.

BACKGROUND

Certain gas streams, such as engine blow-by gases (crankcase ventilationfilter gases from engine crankcases) carry substantial amounts ofentrained oil(s) (liquid) therein as aerosol. Often the oil (liquid)droplets within the aerosol are within the size of 0.1-5.0 microns.

In addition, such gas streams also carry substantial amounts of fineparticulate contaminant such as carbon contaminant. Such contaminantsoften have an average particle size within the range of about 0.01-3.0microns.

In some systems, it is desirable to vent such gases to the atmosphere.In general, it is preferred that before the gases are vented to theatmosphere, they be cleaned of a substantial portion of aerosol and/ororganic particulate contaminant therein.

In other instances, it is desirable to direct the air or gas stream intoequipment. When such is the case, it still can be desirable to separateaerosolized liquids and/or particulates from the stream duringcirculation, in order to provide such benefits as: reduced negativeeffects on the downstream equipment; improved efficiency; recapture ofotherwise lost oil; and/or to address environmental concerns.

Improvements in crankcase ventilation filter systems, (i.e. blow-by orcrankcase ventilation filter gas filtration systems) constructed forapplication with a variety of engine equipment systems are generallysought.

Herein improved features for such arrangements are provided, forconvenience of installation, use, assembly and/or operation.

SUMMARY

According to the present disclosure, crankcase ventilation filterassemblies, features, components, and methods of assembly and use areprovided to improve the prior art. Some of the features and methodsdescribed provide for convenient assembly; some for efficient spaceusage; and/or some for preferred operation.

There is no specific requirement that a crankcase ventilation filterassembly, component, feature, method of use or method of assemblyinclude all of the features and techniques disclosed herein, in order toobtain some advantage. In general, selected use of the features and/ormethods, without the use of others, can still lead to an advantageoussystem.

In an example system characterized herein, the cartridge is configuredto provide for advantageous assembly, and for use with efficientutilization of the media pack positioned therein, relative to thevertical space available for installation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of a crankcaseventilation system, including cylinders and a filtration system;

FIG. 2 is a top view of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of a portion of the systemof FIG. 1, particularly showing the filtration system;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly used with thesystem in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is in an enlarged view of a portion of the filtration assembly ofFIG. 4 shown in “detail D” of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a perspective, cross-sectional view of the filter assembly ofFIG. 4;

FIG. 7 is a top, perspective view of the housing used in the filtrationassembly of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of a portion of the housingof FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a bottom, perspective view of the filter cartridge used in thefilter assembly of FIGS. 4 and 6;

FIG. 10 is a top view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of a portion of the filtercartridge of FIG. 10, the cross-section being taken along the line 11-11of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 9, thecross-section being taken along the line 12-12 of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a bottom, perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIG.12;

FIG. 14 is an exploded, perspective of the filter cartridge of FIGS. 9,10, 12 and 13;

FIG. 15 is an exploded, perspective view of first and second end piecesused in the filter cartridge of FIGS. 9, 10, 12, 13, and 14;

FIG. 16 is a perspective, cross-sectional view of the engine crankcaseventilation system of FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged, perspective view of a portion of the system ofFIG. 16, the portion being shown in “detail V” of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a side view of the crankcase ventilation system, showing thecylinder head cover and filtration assembly, of FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIGS. 19 and 20 are side views of the crankcase ventilation system ofFIG. 18, and showing steps of removing the filtration assembly from thecylinder head cover for servicing;

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional, perspective view of the crankcaseventilation system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 22 is an enlarged, perspective, cross-sectional view of a portionof the system of FIG. 21, the portion being shown in “detail X” of FIG.21;

FIG. 23 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of a portion of thecrankcase ventilation system shown at “Detail Z” in FIG. 1;

FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the filtration assembly mounted onthe cylinder head cover, the cross-section being taken along the line24-24 of FIG. 2; and

FIG. 25 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of a portion of thecrankcase ventilation system of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION A. General Issues and Features

As indicated previously, the present disclosure relates, in general, tosystems, arrangements, features, components and methods concerningcrankcase ventilation filter assemblies. The Assignee of the presentapplication is Donaldson Company, Inc. of Bloomington, Minn. As such,the application, in part, relates to other Donaldson Company, Inc.crankcase ventilation filter assemblies, including, for example, thosedescribed in WO 2007/053411; WO 2008/147585; WO 2008/115985; WO2008/157251; and, WO 2009/018454; the complete disclosures of which eachof being incorporated herein by reference.

The present disclosure relates to certain usable features for crankcaseventilation filter assemblies that can provide advantage relating to oneor more of: assembly operation; assembly servicing; component operationand/or servicing; and/or, assembly or component generation, as describedherein. There is no specific requirement that an assembly, component,feature, arrangement, system or method be applied with all of thedetailed features as described herein, in order to obtain some benefitaccording to the present disclosure. This will be apparent from thedescriptions herein, as well as a general understanding of theprinciples described.

As will be learned from detailed description herein below, many of thefeatures depicted in the current assembly were developed, in part, forapplications to enhance desirable crankcase ventilation filter assemblyfeatures and effects even when the installation location has limitedvertical dimension for installation or when it is desirable to moreefficiently use vertical space available. Indeed, herein example systemsare described, and example dimensions are provided. However, there is nospecific requirement that an assembly be constructed in accord with thespecific dimensions provided in the example, nor is there a requirementthat the principles only be applied in assemblies configured forinstallation in systems of similar limited vertical space. Nevertheless,many of the features depicted and described are particularlyadvantageous for applications involving limited vertical installationspace and/or to take beneficial advantages of the vertical dimension ofthe space available.

B. Overview of Operation

In reference first to FIGS. 1-3, an engine crankcase ventilation systemis shown generally at 40. While a variety of implementations arepossible, in this example embodiment, the system 40 includes an enginehaving cylinders 42, a cylinder head cover 44 (also referred to hereinas a rocker cover 44), oriented over the cylinders 42, and a gas/liquidfiltration or separation assembly 46 (also referred to herein as a“filter assembly” or “filtration assembly.”) The cylinders 42 operateconventionally, and as part of the operation, produce blow-by gases. Theblow-by gasses can carry oil, entrained as aerosol. The blow-by gasescan also carry fine particulate contaminant, such as carbon contaminant.The gas/liquid filtration assembly 46 helps to coalesce the oil from theblow-by gases and return the oil to the engine crankcase. The air in theblow-by gases is filtered and cleaned, and then may be returned to theair intake of the engine turbo.

In general, in operation, blow-by gases from the cylinders 42 aredirected into a regulator valve 48, then into the filtration assembly46. The filtration assembly 46 coalesces oil from the blow-by gases, andthe oil is collected in a drain arrangement 50 (FIG. 25), while the gasis cleaned and filtered. The cleaned gas is then directed out of thefilter assembly 46, and may be directed into the air intake of a turboof the engine; alternatively, it may be vented to the atmosphere. In theexample embodiment shown, the drain arrangement 50 includes a valvearrangement 52 (FIG. 25) in communication with an opening 54 (FIG. 25)in the cylinder head cover 44. When pressure within the crankcaseventilation system 40 drops, such as when the engine is shut off, thevalve arrangement 52 opens, and this allows the collected liquid, suchas oil to flow from the valve arrangement 52 and into the engine. Insome embodiments, the valves also work during engine running conditionon pressure pulsations of the air stream.

In general, the gas/liquid separation assembly (filter assembly) 46includes a filter cartridge 56 and a filter housing 58.

In one non-limiting example embodiment shown, the filter cartridge 56 isremovable from and replaceable within the housing 58. The housing 58,including the filter cartridge 56, is removable from the cylinder headcover 44. In a preferred example, the cartridge 56 is removable withoutthe use of tools from the head cover 44. One example of animplementation for the removability of the assembly 46 from the cylinderhead cover 44 is shown in FIGS. 18-20. Removability of the filterassembly 46 from the cylinder head cover 44 allows for servicing of thesystem 40. More details of this are described below.

C. Example Filter Cartridge

In reference now to FIGS. 9-15, and independent of other features, anexample embodiment of filter cartridge 56 is illustrated.

The filter cartridge 56 includes an extension of filter media 60. Thefilter media 60 can be arranged in various geometric forms.

In one non-limiting example, the filter media 60 can be tubular in shapewith an inside tubular surface 62, and an outside tubular surface 64. By“tubular”, it is meant that the cross-section of the media 60 can be,for example, circular, oval, elliptical, square, square with roundedcorners, rectangular, rectangular with rounded corners,racetrack-shaped, or any shape that forms a tube.

In the non-limiting embodiment illustrated, the cross-section of thefilter media 60 is generally circular, so the inside tubular surface 62is also an inside diameter, while the outside tubular surface 64 is alsoan outside diameter, as the media 60 is shown to be generallycylindrical in shape.

The media 60 has and defines a first axial end section 66 at one end,and a second axial end section 68 (FIG. 12) at the opposite end.

Independent of other features, the media 60 can be any type of mediathat is suitable for the intended function, and may be a multi-layercoil of media, such as glass or glass-free media. Also pre-formed mediapacks can be installed. One usable media includes Synteq XP mediaavailable from Donaldson Company, Bloomington, Minn.

Independently of above, the filter cartridge 56 can include a first endpiece 70 (FIG. 14) and a second end piece 72 (FIG. 14). Preferably, themedia 60 is positioned between the first end piece 70 and the second endpiece 72.

In preferred embodiments, an axial length between the first axial endsection 66 and second axial end section 68 is longer than a distancebetween the first end piece 70 and second end piece 72, such that thereis an interference fit, including compression of the media 60 betweenthe first and second end piece 70, 72.

The first end piece 72 can include a central flow aperture 74therethrough and in gas flow communication with an open filter interior65 of the filter media 60. The filter media 60 surrounds and defines theopen filter interior 65.

Independent of the above, the first end piece 70 can include a perimeterrim 76. The perimeter rim 76 includes a portion 78 projecting radiallyfrom a position adjacent the inside tubular surface 62 and partially inextension along the first axial end section 66 toward the outsidetubular surface 64.

Independently, as can be seen in FIGS. 9, 12, and 13, in the embodimentshown, the portion 78 does not extend the entire distance of the firstaxial end section 66 between the inside tubular surface 62 and outsidetubular surface 64. Rather, the first axial end section 66 has anexposed media section 80 extending from the portion 78 of the rim 76 tothe outside tubular surface 64. The exposed media section 80, asdescribed below, forms a seal 82 with the housing 58, when the filtercartridge 56 is operably oriented in the housing 58.

In preferred embodiments, and independent of the above, the filtercartridge 56 is “seal member free,” which means that even though theexposed media section 80 forms a seal, the filter cartridge 56 has noadditional part whose purpose is to form a seal. That is, the filtercartridge 56 is free of additional gaskets, O-rings, elastomeric sealmembers, plastic deformable ribs, or additional compressed media patchesthat serve to seal.

Independent of the above, the second end piece 72 is a closed end piece84. In one example, the closed end piece 84 includes a closed externalreceiver 86 (FIG. 12) projecting into the open filter interior 65 andtoward the first end piece 70. The external receiver 86 projects towardthe first end piece 70 a distance from the second axial end section 68.The distance can vary depending on the particular application.

In one useful embodiment shown, the distance that the external receiver56 projects from the second end piece 72 toward the first end piece 70and first axial end section 66 is at least one-tenth of the overalldiameter of the media 60; further, it is at least 20%, and typically25-40% of the overall length of the media 60 between first axial endsection 66, and second axial end section 68. In one embodiment, theactual dimension is about 15-20 millimeters.

Independently, the second end piece 72 further includes a media cover104 surrounding the closed external receiver 86. The media cover 104extends over the second axial end section 68.

In the embodiment shown, the filter cartridge 56 can include a liner 88supporting the media 60 along the inside tubular surface 62. In theembodiment shown, the liner 88 extends between the first end piece 70and the second end piece 72.

While a variety of embodiments are possible, and independent of theabove, in one particularly preferred arrangement, the liner 88 isintegral with the first end piece 70. The first end piece 70, includingthe perimeter rim 76, portion 78, and liner 88 can be part of a pre-form90 that is made from a molded, plastic in advance. The liner 88 isporous to allow for the passage of gas flow from the media 60, throughthe liner 88, and into the open filter interior 65.

As can be seen in FIGS. 12, 13, 14, and 15, independent of the above,the perimeter rim 76 of the first end piece 70 includes drainageapertures 106. In operation, when the blow-by gases flow through themedia 60, entrained oil and any other liquid present is coalesced by themedia 60, and it flows by gravity in a direction toward the perimeterrim 76 of the first end piece 70, in which the drainage apertures 106provide drainage holes allowing an escape path for the coalesced liquidor oil. In the embodiment shown, the drainage apertures 106 are evenlyand circumferentially spaced in the rim 76 and immediately adjacent tothe inner liner 88 and the inside tubular surface 62.

Independent of the above, the perimeter rim 76 has a free edge 77. Whenassembled as part of the filter cartridge 56, the free edge 77 isadjacent to the exposed media section 80. In some example embodiments,the free edge 77 can include a plurality of spaced projections 79. Whenarranged with a filter housing, the projections 79 can be part of a keyarrangement 81 (FIGS. 7 and 9), which is explained further below.

Independent of the above, in preferred arrangements, the liner 88 andthe second end piece 72 are attached. Many different ways are possibleand in one example embodiment shown, the liner 88 and the second endpiece 72 are attached by a snap-fit connection.

In FIG. 15, and independent of the above, it can be seen how on thesecond end piece 72, there is latch structure 92 projecting or extendingfrom media facing surface 94 of the second end piece 72. The latchstructure 92 can include a plurality of latches 96. The latches 96 canbe arranged circumferentially, such that they can hook into the liner88. In FIG. 11, there is an enlarged view showing one of the latches 96hooked into or engaged with the liner 88. Of course, the structure couldbe reversed, and the liner 88 could have the hooks, while the second endpiece 72 could have a circular open grid structure that receives thelatches 96.

Independently, the liner 88 may include an indexing mechanism 98 to helporient the second end piece 72 properly on the liner 88. Many ways ofindexing can be used. In the embodiment shown, the indexing mechanism 98includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced ribs 100. In theexample illustrated, the ribs 100 project into the open filter interior65. In the embodiment shown, there are four ribs 100, which are receivedbetween spaced rib pairs 102 extending from the surface 94 of the secondpiece 72.

In FIG. 12, and independent of the above, it can be seen how the innerliner 88 extends axially a distance greater than the axial length of themedia 60. The liner 88 can also project or extends past the perimeterrim 76. Between the perimeter rim 76 and the liner 88, a step 108 (FIG.12) can be formed.

Independent of the above, in accordance with principles of thisdisclosure, there can be handle 110 (FIG. 12) for use in grasping andmanipulating the filter cartridge 56. The handle 110 can project fromthe filter cartridge 56. The handle 110 can include a structure thatallows for grasping and manipulation by a human hand, such that thefilter cartridge 56 can be manipulated. The handle 110 is particularlyconvenient during servicing of the filter assembly 46, for example whenthe cartridge 56 is removed and replaced in the housing 58.

In the embodiment shown, independent of the above, the handle 110 isprojecting from the second end piece 72. A variety of locations andgeometric configurations can be used. In one non-limiting example, thehandle 110 is projecting from the closed external receiver 86 of thesecond end piece 72.

Independently, the handle 110 can be a tab 112 extending or projectingfrom the cartridge 56. For example, the tab 112 can extend or projectfrom the external receiver 86. Independent of the above, the tab 112 canproject from the external receiver 86 by a distance that is not axiallyany greater than the media cover 104 of the second end piece 72.

D. Example Filter Assembly

In reference now to FIGS. 4-8, the filter assembly 46 is now discussedin greater detail. As mentioned previously, the filter cartridge 56 isoperably assembled, preferably for selective replacement within filterhousing 58.

Independent of the above features, the filter housing 58 includes ahousing body 114 defining an open end 116 (FIG. 7). The housing 58includes a service cover 118. The service cover 118 is preferablyremovable to selectively cover and uncover the open end 116. When thecover 118 is removed from the housing body 114, the filter cartridge 56may be accessed. The filter cartridge 56 can be inserted and removedfrom the housing body 114 through the open end 116, when the servicecover 118 is removed.

In reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, as mentioned previously, the filtercartridge 56 is operably positioned in the housing body 114. Independentof the above, the cartridge 56 can be operably positioned in the housingbody 114, such that the exposed media section 80 of the first axial endsection 66 of the media 60 is compressed against a portion, such as wall120 of the housing 58 to form seal 82 therebetween. In this example, thewall 120 is a portion of a bottom wall 122 of the housing body 114.

Independent of the above, the cover 118 can include a projectionarrangement 124 (FIG. 6). The projection arrangement 124 can be orientedto extend into the closed external receiver 86 of the second end piece72.

Many embodiments of the projection arrangement 124 are possible. In onenon-limiting example shown, the projection arrangement 124 isdish-shaped. The projection arrangement 124 can have a same outergeneral shape as that of the external receiver 86.

Independently, the projection arrangement 124 can include a protrusion126. In non-limiting examples, the protrusion can extend in a directionfrom a base 128 of the dish 130 of the projection arrangement 124 and ina direction adjacent to the outside section 132 of the service cover118. The outside section 132 is the section that surrounds the dish 130forming the projection arrangement 124.

Independently, the projection arrangement 124 can be centered within theoutside section 132. The protrusion 126 can extend from the base 128 ofthe dish 130 a length that does not extend beyond the outside section132.

Independent of the above, the protrusion 126 can define and have areceiving pocket 134 therewithin. As can be seen in FIG. 6, the handle110 can extend into the receiving pocket 134. The protrusion 126 canhave an exterior shape that permits it to be manipulated with a tool,such as a wrench. By placing a wrench over the protrusion 126, theservice cover 118 can be selectively tightened or loosened relative tothe housing body 114.

Independently and as can be seen in FIG. 6, a seal member 214 betweenthe cover 118 and the housing body 114 helps to form a seal 216 betweenthe cover 118 and the housing body 114.

Independent of the above, the filter assembly 46 can include an outletassembly 136. The outlet assembly 136 forms an air tube 138 between theopen filter interior 65 and an area outside of the housing 58.

In some non-limiting implementations, the outlet assembly 136 is in airflow communication with the air intake for the turbo for the engine. Inother non-limiting implementations, the outlet assembly 136 vents to theatmosphere.

Independent of the above, the outlet assembly 136 can include an airtube 138. The tube 138 can be a portion of the housing body 114.

The air tube 138 may include an open inlet end 140 (FIGS. 6 and 7),which is oriented within the open filter interior 65. The open inlet end140 is adjacent to and spaced from the second end piece 72.

The outlet assembly 136 may include an open outlet end 142. The outletend 142 can extend radially from a remaining portion of the housing 58.When the filter cartridge 56 is installed within the housing 58, theinlet end 140 of the outlet assembly 136 is within the open filterinterior 65 while the outlet end 142 of the outlet assembly 136 isoutside of the tubular section of media 60.

Independently, in FIG. 7, it can be seen how in the non-limiting exampleshown, the portion of the outlet assembly 136 that is located within theopen filter interior 65 is non-circular in shape which may include anelongate snorkel 144.

In an non-limiting example of operation independent of the above, thelocation of the inlet end 140 of the snorkel 144 allows any furtherliquid in the filtered gas within the open filter interior 65 tocoalesce and drop by gravity to the bottom wall 122, before the air thatexits can reach the inlet end 140 located at an upper section of theopen filter interior 65 and adjacent to the second end piece 72. Also,in a worst operation condition, if the filter cartridge 56 were to fillup with oil, oil will not run into outlet assembly 136 and then into theair intake, because of the high pick-up location of the inlet end 140 ofthe snorkel 144. The filtered air that reaches the inlet end 140 flowsthrough the volume 146 (FIGS. 4 and 6) within the snorkel 144, and thenturns a corner at a right angle to pass under the filter cartridge 56,within the volume 148, and then out past the end 142 of the outlet tube138.

As can be seen in FIGS. 4, 6, and 7, and independent of the above, thebottom wall 122 of the housing body 114, which is at an end opposite ofthe open end 116, includes a plurality of stops or stand offs 150. Thestand offs 150 extend from the bottom wall 122 and are oriented to holdthe cartridge 56. In the example shown, there are a plurality ofcircumferentially spaced stand offs 150 extending or projecting from thebottom wall 122. The standoffs 150 can include holders or cradles 152for engaging the first end piece 170.

In a non-limiting example, the stand offs 150 engage the inner liner 88to hold the cartridge 56. This keeps the cartridge 56 off of the bottomwall 122, which allows for the draining and collection of oil, withouthaving the filter media 60 be soaked in a pool of collected oil.

Independently, another function of the standoffs 150 is that theyprevent the filter cartridge 56 from turning when the protrusion 126 onthe cover 118 is turned to tighten the cover 126 on the housing body114. By preventing the filter cartridge 56 from turning, the exposedmedia section 80 forming the seal 82 does not become damaged.

Independent of the above, the wall 120 may further include a pluralityof discontinuous or intermittent spaced beads 91 (FIG. 7). The beads 91extend or project from the wall 120. The beads 91 can help to hold thecartridge 56 off of the wall 120. When oil is drained and collected, thefilter media 60 will not need to be resting within it and be soaked in apool of collected oil.

As mentioned previously, the filter assembly 46 can include keyarrangement 81, independent of the features above. The key arrangement81 can be used to help align a filter cartridge 56 and the housing body114. Independently, another feature of the key arrangement 81 can bepreventing the filter cartridge 56 from turning, if the arrangementincludes protrusion 126 on the cover 118 that is turned to tighten thecover 126 on the housing body 114. In that arrangement, the keyarrangement 181 can prevent the filter cartridge 56 from turning so theexposed media section 80 forming the seal 82 does not become damaged.

Independently, one example of the key arrangement 81 includes theplurality of spaced projections 79, forming key projections 83 on thefree edge 77 of the perimeter rim 76. The key arrangement 81 alsoincludes a plurality of spaced key receivers 85. The key receivers 85can be shaped to receive the key projections 83. As shown in FIG. 7, thekey receivers 85 can be in the housing body 114. In one example, the keyreceivers 85 can be along the bottom wall 122 of the housing body 114.For example, the key receivers 85 can be in the housing body 114 in alocation that is adjacent to the wall 120 (FIG. 6) of the housing body114 where the seal 82 is formed with the filter cartridge 56.

A variety of embodiments are possible. In the example shown, andindependent of the above, the key projections 83 are curved forming aportion of a circle. The key receivers 85 have the same or about thesame shape in the form of recesses in the wall 120. Many embodiments arepossible, and in the example shown in FIG. 13, spaced between the keyprojections 83 are straight segments 87.

Independent of the above, the bottom wall 122 may include as part of thedrain arrangement 50 at least one drainage hole 154. In some exampleembodiments, there can be more than one drainage hole 154, and in thenon-limiting example shown in FIG. 7, there are two drainage holes 154.Oil that is coalesced by the media 60 drains by gravity from along theinside tubular surface 62 and through the drainage apertures 106 in theperimeter rim 76. The oil flows by gravity to the surface 156 (FIG. 6)of the bottom wall 122 and is directed in a direction to the drainageholes 154.

Independently, the surface 156 may be shaped in a manner to encouragethe flow of the liquid to the drainage holes 154. For example, thebottom wall 122 can include a bump or housing bottom wall projection 158projecting in a direction toward the open end 116, such that any liquidthat forms on the projection 158 will drain by gravity toward thesurface 156 and eventually to the drainage holes 154. The drainage holes154 and valve assembly 52 (described further below) are positioned onthe lowest point of the filter assembly 46, even considering engine tiltangles during shut down (parking on a hill, etc.). The housing bottomwall projection 158 extends into the open filter interior of thecartridge 56 and also helps to orient the cartridge 56 within thehousing 58.

As can be seen in FIGS. 3, 16, and 21, independently, the cylinder headcover 44 can include a matching bump or cylinder head cover projection159 to nest within the housing bottom wall projection 158. This nestingof cover projection 159 of the cylinder head cover 44 within the housingbottom wall projection 158 of the housing 58 can help to locate and holdthe housing 58 relative to the cylinder head cover 44.

In some non-limiting arrangements, the cylinder head cover projection159 is provided to avoid interference with the injectors. In somearrangements, if no cylinder head cover projection 159 is needed, thenthe housing bottom wall projection 158 will not be needed, and thehousing bottom wall 122 can be flat.

As mentioned previously, while there may be a single hole 154 or aplurality of holes 154, in the non-limiting example shown, there are twodrainage holes 154. The drainage holes 154 can each include a drain tube160, 161 (FIG. 4) in axial extension from the bottom wall 122.

Independent of the above, a valve assembly 52 can be provided. In anon-limiting example, each of the drain tubes 160, 161 can have a valveassembly 52 (FIG. 25) controlling the opening and closing of thedrainage holes 154. The valve assembly 52 can be either built into eachof the drain tubes 160, 161, or it can be part of the cylinder headcover 44. In one non-limiting example in FIG. 25, the drain tubes 160,161 are removably sealed within a pair of openings 54 in the cylinderhead cover 44. A seal member 162 is provided for sealing the drain tubes160, 161. Many ways of sealing can be used, and in the example shown,the seal member 162 is held by and circumscribes each of the drain tubes160, 161 to form a seal between the drain tubes 160, 161 and eachopening 54 in the cylinder head cover 44. The valve arrangement 52 isshown as part of the cylinder head cover 44, but in other embodimentsare possible, including the valve arrangement 52 being part of thehousing body 114.

A variety of different types of valves can be used. In the non-limitingexample shown in FIG. 25, the valve arrangement 52 is an umbrella valve164. In this embodiment, the umbrella valve 164 for each drain hole 154is held by and built into the cylinder head cover 44. In operation,liquid, such as oil, drains to the surface 156 of the bottom wall 122and through the drain holes 154 to the interior of the drain tubes 160,161. The oil stays collected therein, and blocked from flowing furtherdue to the umbrella valve 164. When the air pressure conditions withinthe crankcase ventilation system 40 changes, such as when the engineshuts off, the umbrella valve 164 opens, which allows the collectedliquid to flow between an opening of the valve head 166 and the cylinderhead cover 44, which allows the liquid to flow back into the engine.Changes in the crankcase ventilation system 40 that could cause thevalve 164 to open includes, for example, a pressure drop in the system40, or a pressure pulsation in the system 40. The valve 164 will openwhen the pressure conditions within the system 40 change beneficiallyfor oil drainage.

Independent of the above, the filter housing 58 further includes aninlet tube 168. Many different embodiments are possible. In onenon-limiting example, the inlet tube 168 can extend from a side wall 170of the housing body 114. The inlet tube 168 can be in gas flowcommunication with an outlet of the regulator valve 48 (FIG. 3). A sealmember 172 forms a seal between the inlet tube 168 and the portion ofthe cylinder head cover 44 holding the regulator valve 48.

As can be seen in FIGS. 4, 6, and 7, and independent of the above, therecan be a baffle or barrier 174 built into the housing body 114 adjacentto where the filter cartridge 56 is situated and at the end of the inlettube 168, to protect the media 60 from being directly impacted orbombarded with the gas flow directly from the inlet tube 168. Therefore,the gas flow through the inlet tube 168 hits the barrier 174, instead ofthe media 60 at that location, and the air flow must then be directedupwardly and radially around the media in a direction toward the openend 116 and to other portions of the media 60.

In reference now to FIG. 24, independent of the above, the filterassembly 46 can further include a bypass valve assembly 176. Manyembodiments are possible, and a non-limiting example is shown in FIG.24. In FIG. 24, the bypass valve assembly 176 extends from the side wall170 of the housing body 114. If the media 60 becomes clogged oroccluded, pressure on the valve head 178 will act against the spring 180and allow an open passage between the housing body 114 and the valvehead 178, which will then allow for the air to exit the filter assembly46 through relief opening 182. In some example embodiments, the bypassvalve assembly 176 can have an outside tube 177 that is shaped to beconnectable to a hose to evacuate the gases escaping in bypass mode awayfrom the engine or engine bay. The bypass valve assembly 176 can becircumferentially spaced from the inlet tube 168.

Independent of the above, the filter assembly 46 can further include aconnection arrangement 190 constructed and arranged to permit thehousing 58 to be selectively attached and removed from the cylinder headcover 44 of an engine. Many different types of connection arrangements190 can be used including a variety of fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts).

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, and independent of the above,the connection arrangement 190 allows for attachment and removal withoutthe use of tools.

In the non-limiting example shown in the drawings, the connectionarrangement 190 can include a latch member 192. The latch member 192 canbe cantilevered from a remaining portion of the housing 58. In thenon-limiting arrangement shown, the latch arrangement 192 extends from aremaining portion of the housing 58 in an axial direction away from theopen end 116 of the housing 58.

For example, independent of the above, in the illustrated embodiment,the latch member 192 can extend from the bottom wall 122 in an axialdirection away from the open end 116 of the housing 58. The latch member192 can include a hook 194 that engages a latch keeper 196, such as acatch 198 in the cylinder head cover 44. See FIG. 17. The latch member192 may include a projection 200. The projection 200 may includeoperating instructions, such as “push” to inform a person how todisengage the latch arrangement 190. By pushing on the projection 200,the hook 194 is moved away from the catch 198, which then allows thefilter housing 58 to be moved away and off of the cylinder head cover144, without the use of tools.

In one non-limiting example embodiment, the latch member 192 can extendsa distance from the bottom wall 122 that is about 40-60% of the overallheight of the housing 58 between the cover 118 and an end of the draintubes 160, 161. The distance can vary.

Independent of the above, FIGS. 18-20 illustrate steps in servicing thefilter assembly 46 by removing it from the cylinder head cover 44. Thelatch member 192 can be pushed to release the latch member 192 from thecylinder head cover 44. In FIG. 19, it can be seen how the housing 58can be tilted vertically, upwardly and away from the cylinder head cover44 at an angle relative to the cylinder head cover 44 of not greaterthan 30 degrees and generally a vertical distance of not greater than 20millimeters. These angles and distances may be particularly advantageousin arrangements where there is limited vertical space for servicing.After the housing 58 is tilted, the housing 58 can be moved laterallyfrom the cylinder head cover 44. During the step of removing the housing58 from the cylinder head cover 44, the housing 58 can be unsealed frombetween the housing inlet tube 168 and the cylinder head cover 44, andunsealed from between the housing drainage tubes 160, 161 and thecylinder head cover 44.

E. Other Features of the System

Independent of the above, the cylinder head cover 44 may include ablow-by outlet 202 (FIG. 23). The regulator valve 48 can be positionedto cover the blow-by outlet 202. The regulator valve 48 may be in fluidcommunication with the inlet tube 168 of the filter assembly 46 (SeeFIG. 3). The regulator valve 48 can includes a valve member 204 in theform of a diaphragm that is biased by spring 206. A removable cover 208can allows for access to the regulator valve 48. The regulator valve 48helps to regulate the flow of blow-by and control the pressure level inthe crankcase from the engine to the filter assembly 46. As can be seenin FIGS. 1, 3, and 23, the valve member 204 of the regulator valve 48can be mounted on a portion of the cylinder head cover 44 constructed tohold the valve member 204.

The blow-by outlet 202 may include a pre-separator 209 to help withseparating liquid from gas before flowing into the filter assembly 46.In the non-limiting example shown, the pre-separator 209 is illustratedas a vaned splash guard 210. The splash guard 210 can include vanes 212to help prevent liquid, such as oil from splashing or flowing directlythrough the blow-by outlet 202. The vanes 212 may help to coalesceliquid in the blow-by aerosol before it flows into the regulator valve48. A variety of embodiments are possible, and the example shown isnon-limiting.

F. Methods

Periodically, the gas/liquid separation filter assembly 46 will needservicing. In a method of servicing and independent of the above, thefilter housing 58 is removed from the cylinder head cover 44 byreleasably detaching the housing 58 from the cylinder head cover 44.

In one non-limiting example, the step of releasably detaching includesreleasing the latch member 192 connecting the housing 58 and thecylinder head cover 44.

The filter cartridge 56 is replaced within the housing 58 with a newfilter cartridge.

The housing 58 is secured to the cylinder head cover 44 by releasablyattaching the housing 58 to the cylinder head cover 44. In anon-limiting example, the step of releasably attaching can includeengaging the latch member 192 to connect the housing 58 and the cylinderhead cover 44.

The step of removing the housing 58 can include pushing the latch member192 that is integral with the housing 58 to release the latch member 192from the latch keeper 196 on the cylinder head cover 44.

The step of removing the housing 58 from the cylinder head cover 44 caninclude unsealing the housing 58 from between the housing inlet tube 168and the cylinder head cover 44, and also unsealing the housing 58 frombetween a housing drainage tube arrangement 160, 161 and the cylinderhead cover 44.

The step of replacing the filter cartridge 56 can include removing thecover 118 of the housing 58, grasping the handle 110 projecting from thecartridge 56, and then pulling the cartridge 56 from the housing 58.

A new filter cartridge can be installed in the housing 58, and the newfilter cartridge also can have a projecting handle 110.

The cover 118 can be replaced by orienting projection arrangement 124 ofthe cover 118 into the external receiver 86 of the new filter cartridge56 and allowing the projecting handle 110 of the new filter cartridge 56to extend into receiver pocket 134 of the protrusion 126 of the cover118.

The cover 118 can be pressed against the filter cartridge 56 to formseal 82 between and against the exposed media section 80 at the firstaxial end section 66 and the bottom wall 122 of the housing 58. As canbe seen in FIG. 6, seal member 214 helps to form seal 216 between thecover 118 and the housing body 114.

The step of securing the housing 58 to the cylinder head cover 44 mayinclude forming sealing connections between the housing inlet tube 168and the cylinder head cover 44; and a housing drainage tube arrangement,which includes drain tubes 160, 161, and the cylinder head cover 44.

The step of securing may include tilting the housing 58 away from thecylinder head cover 44 at an angle not greater than 30 degrees betweenthe bottom wall 122 of the housing 58 and the cylinder head cover 44.

The step of replacing a filter cartridge can include removing thecartridge 56 from the housing 58 and then inserting a new filtercartridge in the housing 58. Independent of the above, the new filtercartridge can include a plurality of spaced key projections 83. Therecan be a step of orienting the spaced key projections 83 into aplurality of spaced key receivers 85 in the housing 58.

A method of filtering a crankcase ventilation system can use thestructure as described above. The method can include directing blow-bygases into the blow-by outlet 202 of the cylinder head cover 44, andthen through the regulator valve assembly 48.

The blow-by gases can be directed from the regulator valve assembly 48and into the inlet tube 168 of the housing 58 of the filtration assembly46.

The blow-by gases can be directed from the inlet tube 168 and throughthe media 60 in the filter cartridge 56. The media 60 can coalesceliquid from the blow-by gases.

The coalesced liquid may drain from the media 60 by gravity to thebottom wall 122 of the housing 58 and into the drain arrangement, whichcan include drainage holes 154.

The drain arrangement 50 may include valve arrangement 52 incommunication with opening 54 in the cylinder head cover 44.

There can be a step of directing gas that passes through the media 60and into outlet tube 138 and then outside of the housing 58.

There can be the step of collecting the coalesced liquid in the drainarrangement 50, specifically, in the drain tubes 160, 161 until pressurewithin the crankcase ventilation system changes, which allows the valvearrangement 52 to open, permitting the liquid to flow back into theengine.

G. Example Dimensions

Example dimensions of usable embodiments are described. These areexample only, and variations in the dimensions are possible.

The housing 58 can have an overall diameter of about 180 mm; a lengthfrom the service cover 118 to an end of the drain tubes 160, 161 ofabout 87 mm; and a length from the service cover 118 to a free end ofthe latch member 192 of about 131 mm.

The filter cartridge 56 can have an overall diameter of about 150 mm andan overall length (height) of about 58 mm. The media 60 can have alength (height) of about 50 mm. The aspect ratio of the filter cartridge(diameter: length (height)) is about 2-3.25, and in many instances2.5-3.0.

H. Example Principles

A filter cartridge for use in gas/liquid separation; the filtercartridge comprises an extension of filter media surrounding an openfilter interior; the filter media can have an inside surface, an outsidesurface, a first axial end section, and second axial end section.

There can be a first end piece.

There can be a second end piece.

The media can be positioned between the first and second end pieces.

The first end piece can have a central flow aperture therethrough in gasflow communication with the open filter interior.

The first end piece can include a perimeter rim.

The perimeter rim can have a portion projecting radially from a positionadjacent the filter media inside surface and partially in extensionalong the first axial end section toward the filter media outsidesurface. The first axial end section can have an exposed media sectionextending from the perimeter rim to the filter media outside surface;the exposed media section forming a seal with a housing, when the filtercartridge is operably oriented in a housing.

The second end piece can be on the second axial end section of thefilter media.

The second end piece can be a closed end piece.

The second end piece can have a closed external receiver thereinprojecting into the open filter.

The second end piece receiver may project toward the first end piece adistance from the second axial end section.

A liner can support the media along the filter media inside surface.

The liner may extend between the first end piece and second end piece.

The liner can be integral with the first end piece.

The liner and the second end piece are snap-fit together.

A handle can project from the filter cartridge.

The handle can project from the second end piece.

The handle may project from the closed external receiver of the secondend piece.

The second end piece can include a media cover surrounding the closedexternal receiver; the media cover extending over the second axial endsection of the media.

The handle may extend from the filter cartridge an axial distance nogreater than the media cover of the second end piece.

The perimeter rim of the first end piece can include drainage apertures.

The perimeter rim may have a free edge adjacent to the exposed mediasection.

The free edge can include a plurality of spaced projections.

The media may have a multi-layer coil of media or pre-formed media.

A gas/liquid separation assembly comprises a filter cartridge and ahousing including a housing body that can have an open end and aremovable cover over the open end.

The filter cartridge can be operably positioned in the housing body withthe exposed media section of the first axial end section of the mediacompressed against a wall of the housing to form a seal therebetween.

The second end piece may have a closed external receiver thereinprojecting into the open filter and toward the first end piece adistance from the second axial end section.

The cover can include a projection arrangement extending into the closedexternal receiver of the second end piece.

The cartridge can include a handle projecting from the closed externalreceiver of the second end piece.

The projection arrangement of the cover can include a protrusion with areceiving pocket; the handle extending into the receiving pocket.

An outlet assembly can be in airflow communication between the openfilter interior and an area outside of the housing.

The outlet assembly can include an air tube in the housing body; the airtube can have an open inlet end adjacent and spaced from the second endpiece and can be oriented within the open filter interior, and an openoutlet end extending from the housing.

The housing can include a bottom wall at an end opposite of the openend.

The bottom wall may include standoffs extending from the bottom wall.

The standoffs can be holding the cartridge.

The standoffs can engage a liner supporting the media along the filtermedia inside surface.

The bottom wall of the housing can include at least one drainage hole.

The bottom wall of the housing can include a plurality of drainageholes.

Each drainage hole may be defined by a respective drain tube in axialextension from the bottom wall.

The bottom wall can include a housing bottom wall projection extendinginto the open filter interior.

The housing can include an inlet tube.

The inlet tube can extend from a sidewall wall of the housing.

A bypass valve assembly may extend from the housing.

The bypass valve assembly can extend from a sidewall of the housing andcan be circumferentially spaced from the inlet tube.

A connection arrangement may be constructed and arranged to permit thehousing to be selectively attached and removed from a cylinder headcover of an engine.

The connection arrangement can include a latch member cantilevered froma remaining portion of the housing.

The latch member can extend from the remaining portion of the housing inan axial direction away from the open end of the housing.

The housing can include a bottom wall at an end opposite of the openend.

The latch member may extend from the bottom wall in an axial directionaway from the open end of the housing.

A key arrangement can be provided to align the filter cartridge and thehousing body.

The key arrangement may include a plurality of spaced key projections ona free edge of the perimeter rim.

The key arrangement may include a plurality of spaced key receivers inthe housing body shaped to receive the key projections.

The spaced key receivers in the housing body are adjacent to the wall ofthe housing body forming the seal with the filter cartridge.

A system for gas/liquid separation for an engine crankcase may comprisean engine with cylinders producing blow-by gases; and a cylinder headcover oriented over the cylinders; and a gas/liquid separation assemblyoperably assembled on the cylinder head cover in fluid communicationwith the blow-by gases of the engine.

The cylinder cover can include a blow-by outlet.

A regulator valve assembly can cover the blow-by outlet.

The regulator valve assembly can be in fluid communication with an inlettube of the housing of the gas/liquid separation assembly.

The blow-by outlet can include a pre-separator.

The cylinder head cover can include a receiving hole arrangement.

The receiving hole arrangement can be in fluid communication with the atleast one drainage hole in the bottom wall of the housing.

A valve arrangement can be positioned in the receiving hole arrangementin the cylinder head cover; the valve arrangement controlling flow ofliquid from the at least one drainage hole in the bottom wall of thehousing.

The cylinder head cover can include a latch keeper constructed andarranged to receive and engage a latch member on the housing.

A method of servicing a gas/liquid separation assembly of an enginecrankcase can include a step of removing a gas/liquid filter housingfrom a cylinder head cover by releasably detaching the housing from thecylinder head cover.

The method of servicing can include replacing a filter cartridge withinthe housing with a new filter cartridge.

The method of servicing can include securing the housing to the cylinderhead cover by releasably attaching the housing and the cylinder headcover.

The step of releasably detaching the housing from the cylinder headcover can include releasing a latch connecting the housing and thecylinder head cover.

The step of securing the housing to the cylinder head cover byreleasably attaching the housing and the cylinder head cover can includeengaging the latch to connect the housing and the cylinder head cover.

The step of releasably detaching the housing can include pushing a latchmember that can be integral with the filter housing to release the latchmember from a latch keeper on the cylinder head cover.

The step of removing the gas/liquid filter housing from the cylinderhead cover may include unsealing the housing from between a housinginlet tube and the cylinder head cover; and unsealing the housing frombetween a housing drainage tube arrangement and the cylinder head cover.

The step of removing the gas/liquid filter housing can include tiltingthe housing vertically upwardly away from the cylinder head cover notmore than 20 mm.

The step of removing the gas/liquid filter housing can include tiltingthe housing at an angle between the housing and cylinder head cover ofnot greater than 30°, and then moving the housing laterally from thecylinder head cover.

The step of replacing a filter cartridge can include removing a cover ofthe housing; grasping a handle projecting from the cartridge; pullingthe cartridge from the housing.

The step of replacing a filter cartridge can include inserting a newfilter cartridge in the housing can have a projecting handle.

There can be a step of replacing the cover by orienting a projectionarrangement into an external receiver of the new filter cartridge andallowing the projecting handle of the new filter cartridge to extendinginto a receiver pocket of a protrusion of the cover.

There may be the step of pressing the cover against the filter cartridgeto form a seal between and against exposed media at an axial end and abottom wall of the housing.

The step of securing the housing to the cylinder head cover can includeforming sealing connections between (i) a housing inlet tube and thecylinder head cover; and (ii) a housing drainage tube arrangement andthe cylinder head cover.

The step of securing can include tilting the housing away from thecylinder head cover at an angle not greater than 30°.

The step of replacing a filter cartridge can include removing thecartridge from the housing.

The step of replacing a filter cartridge can include inserting a newfilter cartridge in the housing.

The new filter cartridge can include a plurality of spaced keyprojections.

The step of replacing a filter cartridge can include orienting thespaced key projections into a plurality of spaced key receivers in thehousing.

A method of filtering a crankcase ventilation system can comprisedirecting blow-by gases into a blow-by outlet of a cylinder head coverand through a regulator valve assembly; directing the blow by gases fromthe regulator valve assembly into an inlet tube of a housing ofgas/liquid separation assembly; the gas/liquid separation assemblyincluding a filter cartridge operably sealed therein; directing theblow-by gases from the inlet tube through media in the filter cartridgeand coalescing liquid from the blow by gases; allowing the coalescedliquid to drain from the media to a bottom wall of the housing and intoa drain arrangement; the drain arrangement including a valve arrangementin communication with an opening in the cylinder head cover; directinggas that passes through the media into an outlet tube and outside of thehousing; and collecting the coalesced liquid in the drain arrangementuntil pressure conditions within the crankcase ventilation systemchanges, allowing the valve arrangement in the drain arrangement toopen, allowing the liquid to flow into the engine.

The step of allowing the coalesced liquid to drain from the media to abottom wall of the housing and into a drain arrangement can includedraining the liquid into a valve arrangement which can have a valvesecured to the cylinder head cover.

The method can include putting a filter cartridge into a housing throughan open end of the housing.

The filter cartridge can have an extension of filter media surroundingan open filter interior; the filter media can have an inside surface, anoutside surface, a first axial end section, and second axial endsection.

The filter cartridge can have a first end piece including a perimeterrim.

The perimeter rim can have a portion projecting radially from a positionadjacent the filter media inside surface and partially in extensionalong the first axial end section toward the filter media outsidesurface.

The first axial end section can have an exposed media section extendingfrom the rim to the filter media outside surface.

The method can include axially compressing the filter cartridge againsta wall of the housing to form a seal between and against the exposedmedia section of the filter cartridge and the wall of the housing.

The step of axially compressing can include placing a cover over theopen end of the housing; securing the cover to the housing; and whilesecuring the cover, axially compressing the filter cartridge against thewall of the housing with the cover.

A gas/liquid separation assembly can comprise a housing including aninlet, an gas outlet, a liquid drain arrangement, and a connectionarrangement.

The connection arrangement can be constructed and arranged to permit thehousing to be selectively attached and removed from a cylinder headcover of an engine without the use of tools.

A filter cartridge can be removably sealed within the housing.

The housing can include a removable cover selectively exposing an openend of the housing to allow access to the filter cartridge.

The liquid drain arrangement can include at least one drainage hole inthe bottom wall of the housing.

The connection arrangement can include a latch member cantilevered froma remaining portion of the housing.

The housing can include a bottom wall at an end opposite of the openend.

The connection arrangement can include a latch member extending from thebottom wall in an axial direction away from the open end of the housing.

A system for gas/liquid separation for an engine crankcase can comprisesan engine with cylinders and producing blow-by gases; a cylinder headcover oriented over the cylinders; and a gas/liquid separation assemblysupported by and releasably attached to the cylinder head cover by theconnection arrangement, such that the assembly can be in fluidcommunication with the blow-by gases of the engine.

The above specification includes examples of embodiments and principlesof this disclosure. Many embodiments can be made applying theseprinciples.

1. A filter cartridge for use in gas/liquid separation; the filtercartridge comprising: (a) an extension of filter media surrounding anopen filter interior; the filter media having an inside surface, anoutside surface, a first axial end section, and second axial endsection; (b) first and second end pieces; (i) the media being positionedbetween the first and second end pieces; (ii) the first end piece havinga central flow aperture therethrough in gas flow communication with theopen filter interior; (iii) the first end piece including a perimeterrim; (A) the perimeter rim having a portion projecting radially from aposition adjacent the filter media inside surface and partially inextension along the first axial end section toward the filter mediaoutside surface; (B) the first axial end section having an exposed mediasection extending from the perimeter rim to the filter media outsidesurface; the exposed media section forming a seal with a housing, whenthe filter cartridge is operably oriented in a housing; and (iv) thesecond end piece being on the second axial end section of the filtermedia.
 2. A filter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) thesecond end piece is a closed end piece.
 3. A filter cartridge accordingto claim 2 wherein: (a) the second end piece has a closed externalreceiver therein projecting into the open filter and toward the firstend piece a distance from the second axial end section.
 4. A filtercartridge according to claim 1 further comprising: (a) a linersupporting the media along the filter media inside surface.
 5. A filtercartridge according to claim 4 wherein: (a) the liner extends betweenthe first end piece and second end piece.
 6. A filter cartridgeaccording to claim 4 wherein: (a) the liner is integral with the firstend piece.
 7. A filter cartridge according to claim 4 wherein: (a) theliner and the second end piece are snap-fit together.
 8. A filtercartridge according to claim 1 further comprising: (a) a handleprojecting from the filter cartridge.
 9. A filter cartridge according toclaim 8 wherein: (a) the handle is projecting from the second end piece.10. A filter cartridge according to claim 9 wherein: (a) the handle isprojecting from the closed external receiver of the second end piece.11. A filter cartridge according to claim 8 wherein: (a) the second endpiece includes a media cover surrounding the closed external receiver;the media cover extending over the second axial end section of themedia; and (b) the handle extends from the filter cartridge an axialdistance no greater than the media cover of the second end piece.
 12. Afilter cartridge according to claim 1 wherein: (a) the perimeter rim ofthe first end piece includes drainage apertures.
 13. A filter cartridgeaccording to claim 1 wherein: (a) the perimeter rim has a free edgeadjacent to the exposed media section; the free edge including aplurality of spaced projections.
 14. A filter cartridge according toclaim 1 wherein: (a) the media comprises a multi-layer coil of media orpre-formed media.
 15. A gas/liquid separation assembly comprising: (a) afilter cartridge according to claim 1; and (b) a housing including ahousing body having an open end and a removable cover over the open end;(i) the filter cartridge being operably positioned in the housing bodywith the exposed media section of the first axial end section of themedia being compressed against a wall of the housing to form a sealtherebetween. 16-60. (canceled)
 61. A gas/liquid separation assemblyaccording to claim 15 further including: (a) a key arrangement to alignthe filter cartridge and the housing body.
 62. A system for gas/liquidseparation for an engine crankcase comprising: (a) an engine havingcylinders and producing blow-by gases; (b) a cylinder head coveroriented over the cylinders; and (c) the gas/liquid separation assemblyaccording to claim 15 operably assembled on the cylinder head cover influid communication with the blow-by gases of the engine.
 63. A systemaccording to claim 62 wherein: (a) the cylinder head cover includes alatch keeper constructed and arranged to receive and engage a latchmember on the housing.
 64. A gas/liquid separation assembly comprising:(a) a housing including an inlet, an gas outlet, a liquid drainarrangement, and a connection arrangement; (i) the connectionarrangement constructed and arranged to permit the housing to beselectively attached and removed from a cylinder head cover of an enginewithout the use of tools; and (b) a filter cartridge removably sealedwithin the housing.
 65. A gas/liquid separation assembly according toclaim 64 wherein: (a) the housing includes a removable cover selectivelyexposing an open end of the housing to allow access to the filtercartridge.